The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change confirms that the white substance seen flowing into the sea along Marine Drive in Lautoka was water-soluble paint washed off from a CDP Pte Ltd courier truck.
Investigations found that the incident occurred when the truck driver washed the vehicle in front of the company’s Lautoka branch.
The Ministry says the paint runoff entered the stormwater system and was discharged into the marine environment.
They have condemned the improper handling and disposal of chemicals, warning that such actions pose serious risks to marine life, pollute coastal waters, and undermine public confidence in environmental protection measures.
CDP Pte Ltd staff were directed to immediately clean and remove all remaining paint residue from the affected area.
The Ministry also issued strict orders prohibiting any further washing of trucks or contaminated equipment at that location.
A follow-up inspection is scheduled for today to ensure full compliance and confirm that corrective actions have been completed.
The Ministry adds that it will not hesitate to take further enforcement action if any breaches persist.
